Which countries are flown over during a trip from London to Nairobi?

Air Travel

By Kristy Tolley

London to Nairobi flight route

Travelling from London to Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya, is a popular route for both business and leisure travellers. This route covers a considerable distance and passes over several countries, giving passengers a unique perspective on the world from above.

Route overview and distance

The flight route from London to Nairobi covers a distance of approximately 6,400 kilometres (3,977 miles) and takes around 8 hours and 30 minutes. The route takes passengers across Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, passing over several countries along the way.

Countries flown over and their location

During a flight from London to Nairobi, passengers will fly over several countries, including France, Italy, Egypt, Sudan, Ethiopia, and finally Kenya. While the route mainly passes over these countries, there may be other countries visible from the plane’s window, depending on the flight path and the time of day.

First country flown over: France

The first country that passengers will fly over after departing London is France. The flight path typically takes the plane over the eastern part of the country, passing over cities such as Paris, Lyon, and Marseille. Passengers may be able to spot famous landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower or the Arc de Triomphe from above.

Second country flown over: Italy

After flying over France, the flight route takes passengers over the northern part of Italy. Passengers may be able to see the snow-capped peaks of the Alps or the winding canals of Venice from above. The flight path may also take passengers over the cities of Milan, Florence, or Rome.

Third country flown over: Egypt

As the flight route moves towards Africa, passengers will fly over Egypt. The plane may pass over the city of Cairo or the famous pyramids of Giza, which can be seen from above. Passengers may also be able to see the winding Nile River or the vast Sahara Desert.

Fourth country flown over: Sudan

After leaving Egypt, the flight route takes passengers over Sudan. This country is mostly covered by desert, but passengers may be able to see the winding Nile River or the bustling city of Khartoum from above.

Fifth country flown over: Ethiopia

As the plane approaches Kenya, passengers will fly over Ethiopia. This country is known for its rugged landscapes, including the Simien Mountains and the Danakil Depression. Passengers may also be able to spot the capital city of Addis Ababa from above.

Sixth country flown over: Kenya

Finally, the flight route will take passengers over Kenya, the destination of the journey. Passengers may be able to see the sprawling city of Nairobi or the snow-capped peak of Mount Kenya from above. The flight may also pass over the savannahs of the Masai Mara or the Great Rift Valley.

Other countries visible during the flight

Depending on the flight path and the time of day, passengers may be able to see other countries from the plane’s window. For example, the flight route may pass over the Mediterranean Sea, giving passengers a view of countries such as Greece, Turkey, or Cyprus.

Interesting sights and landmarks from above

During the flight from London to Nairobi, passengers may be able to spot several interesting sights and landmarks from above. These may include famous cities, natural landmarks, or man-made structures. Some of the most notable landmarks that passengers may be able to see include the Eiffel Tower, the Pyramids of Giza, and the snow-capped peaks of Mount Kenya.

Conclusion: A unique perspective on the world

Flying from London to Nairobi offers passengers a unique perspective on the world, as they pass over several countries and see various landscapes and landmarks from above. From the bustling cities of Europe to the rugged landscapes of Africa, this flight route offers a glimpse into the diversity of our planet.

References and further reading

  • FlightRadar24 (2021). London to Nairobi Flight Path. Retrieved from https://www.flightradar24.com/data/flights/ba65
  • World Atlas (2021). Countries of Europe. Retrieved from
  • World Atlas (2021). Countries of Africa. Retrieved from
Photo of author

Kristy Tolley

Kristy Tolley, an accomplished editor at TravelAsker, boasts a rich background in travel content creation. Before TravelAsker, she led editorial efforts at Red Ventures Puerto Rico, shaping content for Platea English. Kristy's extensive two-decade career spans writing and editing travel topics, from destinations to road trips. Her passion for travel and storytelling inspire readers to embark on their own journeys.

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